Walter Eugene Lewis, Sr. was known to his family, friends and neighbors as Grandmaster Lewis. He was born August 23, 1942 in Jacksonville, FL. He attended Duval County public schools. He was a graduate of Douglas Anderson High School. He retired from The City of Jacksonville as a Recreation Leader but had various places of employment throughout the city during his lifetime.
Grandmaster Lewis was a family man, a God-fearing man and a determined man. He had a strong love for his community and a passion for helping others. Over the years he established a free summer camp, free martial arts lessons, mentorship and guidance to many. He began his martial arts career in 1972, leading to a long, prosperous career and legacy in teaching Taekwondo and as a professional Kickboxer. He began teaching classes in his front yard and soon touched the lives of over 500 students across all of Jacksonville, FL. He always reminded everyone no matter how difficult the task was to tell yourself “ I love this kind of stuff” and would always respond with saying his day was “Better than Blessed” when asked how he was doing.
On Tuesday, February 21, 2023, he ascended to heaven’s gates to meet the Lord and rest in glory after winning his final fight. He was preceded in death by his parents, Stanely Lewis and Nellie Priscilla Forrester; sisters, Ruby Lee Willis and Erline Chapman; and brothers, Earl Johnson and Clarence Lewis.
He is survived by his wife, Emma Lewis; son, Walter Lewis Jr (Deanna); daughters, Wanda Loving (Marvis), Wanda Wilson (Sylvester), Shenelle Paige, Alexis Thomas (Michael); sisters, Claudia Powell and Carolyn Spann; 8 grandchildren; 3 great-grandchildren; and host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and other loving relatives and friends.
He received the ultimate reward of his mansion, robe and crown; all fit for a champion.